What happened
On 24 August 2022, a Cessna 182Q, registration G-BRRK, was conducting a private flight from Elstree aerodrome to Finmere Microlight Site with one passenger on board. As the aircraft joined the left-hand circuit for Runway 28, the pilot prepared for landing. While the pilot had previously flown to this location and was aware of a road crossing near the runway threshold, the aircraft's approach height was insufficient to clear traffic on the road.
As the aircraft progressed along the final approach, approximately 1.5 miles from the threshold, the pilot noticed a vehicle entering the road in his peripheral vision. Shortly after, an audible impact was heard, and the passenger observed an articulated vehicle passing directly beneath the aircraft. Suspecting that the right main landing gear had struck the vehicle, the pilot elected to perform a go-around to check for structural damage.
Following the incident, the pilot declared an emergency on the 121.5 MHz frequency to contact the Distress and Diversocation Cell. After being advised that an inspection could be conducted at Oxford or Elstree, the pilot chose to return to Elstree. A low-level flypast allowed air traffic control and ground personnel to inspect the gear, and no visible damage was identified. The aircraft subsequently landed safely.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the circumstances surrounding the approach and the proximity of the road to the runway. The investigation noted that the end of Runway 28 is situated only 35 metres from the public road. While the aerodrome is unlicensed and not subject to CAA oversight, the investigation reviewed the pilot's awareness of the road traffic. The driver of the involved vehicle also provided evidence, including photographs of tyre marks found on the top of the articulated vehicle.
Findings
- The aircraft approached the runway threshold at a height lower than required to maintain a safe clearance from vehicles using the adjacent road.
- The right main landing gear made contact with the top of an articulated vehicle.
- A post-flight maintenance inspection of G-BRRK confirmed that the aircraft had sustained no damage.
- The aerodrome owner expressed intentions to increase awareness for visiting pilots regarding the high volume of heavy vehicles using the road near the runway end.